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Lee Mead to play Barnum: The Circus Musical in York

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Lee Mead to play Barnum: The Circus Musical in York

West End performer and television star Mead, now 44, made his breakthrough when winning the BBC One reality show Any Dream Will Do in 2007, going on to star in the Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat tour that brought him to the Cumberland Street theatre in 2010.

Lee is no stranger to Barnum, first playing the show-hosting Ringmaster in a school production when he was 13 or 14 in his home town of Southend-on-Sea.

“I had such a brilliant time and I thought the story and the characters were wonderful. And it had all these fantastic songs, like Come Follow The Band, The Colours Of My Life and There Is A Sucker Born Every Minute.”

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Lee’s friend Chris was cast in the lead role. “And he was a great Barnum, but I remember thinking, ‘It would be lovely to play that part one day’.”

Now, three decades later, his wish has come true at last as he headlines a lavish new UK tour of the 1980 musical by Cy Coleman (music), Michael Stewart (lyrics) and Mark Bramble (book).

Barnum: The Circus Musical tells the story of legendary American showman, marketing genius and master of spectacle P.T. Barnum, who revolutionised entertainment in the 1800s through the Barnum & Bailey Circus and the Greatest Show on Earth.

As he steps into the ring for the 2026 tour, Lee says: “It’s an absolute classic and I can’t quite believe I now get to play Barnum some 30 years after that school production. I think I must have somehow manifested it.”

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Barnum’s tour show is directed by Jonathan O’Boyle, choreographed by Strictly Come Dancing alumna Oti Mabuse and features more than 20 actor-musicians, alongside acrobats and international circus acts.

Starring as Barnum is not only a dream come true for the Any Dream Will Do winner but also an homage to his grandfather Bert and grandmother Lil, who did not have much money, meaning that a trip to the theatre was very rare for them.

“But they saved up for a year and a half to see Barnum at the London Palladium and they loved it,” says Lee. “It stayed with them their whole lives. Sadly they’re no longer with us, but I know they would have been so proud to see me in it. Every performance is going to be for them.”

Since Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Lee has starred in Wicked, Legally Blonde, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Chicago and Sister Act and plenty besides. “But this is definitely my most challenging role,” he says.

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“It’s one of those rare roles for a leading man. It’s an enormous part, with huge monologues and so many songs, and I don’t think I leave the stage for two hours, apart from the interval of course.”

Then add the tightrope walking, a discipline that has required several months of intense training for Lee. “It’s the kind of thing you learn at 24, not 44,” he says. “I’ve had to get myself fit and put in the work. The rope is about 7ft off the ground and, although I trained with a harness on, there’s no harness during the show itself.

“You have to use your whole body, your whole core and every ounce of your focus and energy to get across that wire, but I like a challenge.”

Does he play an instrument too in this actor-musician show? “I don’t, no. I already have enough to do with the acting, singing, dancing and tightrope walking!” he says.

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As with Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of P.T. Barnum in The Greatest Showman, the musical looks at the real man behind the on-stage showman, not least how he had a wife named Charity but became infatuated with Swedish singer Jenny Lind.

“So he’s a flawed character, as most human beings are,” muses Lee. “As an actor, it’s interesting to explore that side of him alongside all the spectacle. It makes for great drama.”

When researching the role, “it was interesting to learn about Barnum’s tenacity and his drive, which I think you have to have to be as successful as he was,” says Lee. “At times he kind of put his wife to one side, even though she was so supportive and loving, so I guess you could say that he was very selfish.

“But he wanted the world to see all these amazing acts that he brought together, like the oldest woman in the world, Joice Heth and General Tom Thumb. It was his passion.”

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Lee picks The Colours Of My Life as his favourite song in the show “because the melody is beautiful and it’s about him trying to explain to Charity why he is the way he is, with all the different colours to him as a person and why he wants to light people up, entertain them and make them happy,” he says.

Those sentiments now apply to Lee’s own performance too.

Lee Mead stars in Barnum: The Circus Musical at Grand Opera House, York, February 24 to 28, 7.30pm plus Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.

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Coronation Street’s Carl finally exposed as Debbie declares the end | Soaps

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Coronation Street's Carl finally exposed as Debbie declares the end | Soaps
The scales fell…and they fell hard (Picture: Danielle Baguley/ITV)

This article contains spoilers for tonight’s (April 6) episode of Coronation Street, which has not yet aired on TV but is available to watch now on YouTube and ITVX.

If there’s one thing that not a single Corrie fan doubts, it’s that Ronnie Bailey’s (Vinta Morgan) will to look after Debbie Webster (Sue Devaney) is simply unshakeable. Another undisputed fact among Weatherfield faithful is that Carl Webster (Jonathan Howard) can not be trusted.

Ever.

It didn’t take Carl long after Debbie was released from the clink, for a crime that he committed, mind you, for him to resume his campaign to extract as much cash from her as possible.

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Visiting her inside and perennially on the beg, the guilt Debbie felt for giving her son away at birth and only recently admitting all to him, led to much money being handed over as she desperately tried to make everything better, but her hope was false.

Carl had almost no interest in building a relationship with his sister-turned-mum – he wanted a cash injection and to be on his way.

Carl Webster standing in front of Debbie Webster, who is sitting on a swing, in Coronation Street.
Carl found Debbie (Picture: Danielle Baguley/ITV)

Debbie was finally set free yesterday, but had her nearest and dearest panicked when she promptly disappeared. With her dementia ever-worsening, Ronnie and brother Kevin Webster (Michael Le Vell) were terrified.

As it turned out, though, Debbie was completely fine, and had taken herself off for a cheeky swing at the precinct. As she seemingly slipped into confusion, though, Carl approached, and she admitted she was playing, managing to talk an ice cream out of him.

Retiring to her flat, Carl and Debbie seemingly began to bond on a very real level, with Carl’s tough-as-nails exterior beginning to crack as he showed real guilt for what he’d put her through, delivering a genuine apology and declaring his love, with him finally accepting her as his mum…

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…until he started asking for money. Again.

Fiona Morley standing with a smirk in front of Carl Webster, who has his head in his hands in Coronation Street
Carl claimed he needs money to pay off dodgy Fiona (Picture: ITV)

Todays trip to the cobbles saw our diminutive dynamo ready to return to work and get cracking. Out of her prison duds and exploding back into the Chariot Square hotel dressed to kill, Debbie was on a mission to reclaim her pre-prison identity, and also to shuffle ten grand out of the hotel’s accounts and into Carl’s.

Carl was jittery, constantly bugging Debbie about the cash, and Ronnie’s hackles turned vertical when he learned about the amount of money his wife was preparing to hand over. As Carl became more and more uncomfortable with how much Debbie was willing to share with Ronnie, especially that the money was being used to pay off Fiona, Ronnie grew more angry and, once alone, he decided to seek the truth from the source.

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With Debbie insisting that Carl work at the hotel to pay off his new debt to her, Ryan Connor’s (Ryan Prescott) nose was seriously put out of joint, having fired Carl previously. Approaching Carl and demanding he put in a shift that evening, the two males traded barbs, with Carl smugly declaring that he’d always come first with Debbie, and battling him would prove to be fruitless.

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But battle Ryan did, and as they approached Debbie while at each other’s throats, Ryan was prepared to walk away, completely unable to deal with Carl, until Debbie offered to fatten his pay cheque.

As things got more heated, Ronnie returned and detonated the bomb that Fiona had handed him: Carl owes her £5,000, not £10,000. He spelt it out clearly as Debbie’s heart broke – Carl was using her to pay his debt, and line his own pockets.

Though Carl spluttered and scrambled, Debbie could take no more, hurting from yet another extortion attempt. She declared to Carl that they were finished as the scales fell from her eyes and shattered on the floor.

Inflicting yet another enormous wound on the only person who loves him in the whole world, has Carl lost his last lifeline? Could this have any bearing on the upcoming murder that’ll lessen Coronation Street of one of it’s many baddies?

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Siberian Tiger dies at Highland Wildlife Park after age-related illness

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Botzman, a male tiger, had been receiving specialist care for over a year.

A Siberian tiger has died at the Highland Wildlife Park aged 14 after a battle with an age-related illness.

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Botzman, a male Amur tiger, was put to sleep on Monday, April 6. He had been receiving specialist veterinary care for the illness for over a year.

Botzman was the sire to seven cubs, including Nishka, who still lives at the park in Kingussie with her mother Dominika.

A statement from Highland Wildlife Park reads: “We are sad to share the news that Botzman, our beloved male Amur tiger, has been put to sleep at the age of 14 following an age-related illness.

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“Our veterinary team and animal keepers had been providing him with specialist geriatric care for more than a year, ensuring he had the best quality of life possible.

“With his health deteriorating in recent days our vet team made the difficult decision to put Botzman to sleep.

“This gentle boy was a father to seven cubs including Nishka, who still lives here at the park with her mother Dominika. We know he will be hugely missed by everyone.”

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I tested the season’s top sporty swimsuits: Here are 10 that actually stay put

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I tested the season's top sporty swimsuits: Here are 10 that actually stay put

Love to swim for fitness? Whether you’re heading to the lido for a few laps, trying open-water swimming on the coast or mixing beach days with water sports, you’ll need swimwear that can keep up with you as you move.

Sporty swimwear is all about balancing function with flattering design — and making sure you don’t flash anyone! Whether you’re swimming, diving or paddling, a good sport-appropriate swimsuit will support your body without feeling restrictive and look good while it’s doing it. The right women’s sporty swimsuits offer comfort, coverage and confidence without compromising on style.

Best sporty swimsuits for women at a glance

What to look for in sporty swimsuits for women

Comfort is key in the water, but performance matters just as much. Well-made sporty swimsuits should feel secure without restricting movement and offer enough stretch for a full range of motion while still holding their shape over time.

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Look for chlorine-resistant fabrics, which help prevent fading and maintain elasticity, as well as UV protection and more coverage for outdoor swimming.

Support is equally important: features like built-in shelf bras, double linings and cross-back straps help keep your suit in place, however you move.

A snug fit will prevent drag and prevent slipping and gaping, while quick-drying, breathable materials will keep you comfortable between swims.

Where to find stylish sporty swimsuits

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Sporty swim style is all about clean lines and practical design, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Some brands, such as Speedo, specialise in suits for swimming, and others, such as Finisterre, are all about surfing, but both have stylish suits that you’ll be happy to wear on holiday.

Classic black and navy are timeless, but modern brands are also embracing bold colours, colour-blocking and retro styles that feel just as at home on the beach as they do in the pool. Ultimately, buy a suit you love the look of, so you can go from laps to sun lounger without getting changed.

I tried my selection of swimsuits and bikinis during swimming sessions at my local lido as well as on wild swims on the Cornish coast, assessing each one for comfort, performance, and a close yet flexible fit.

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North Korea: Kim Jong Un’s teenage daughter could be considered his successor, Seoul’s spy agency reportedly says | World News

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(L-R) Kim Ju Ae and Kim Jong Un fire pistols as they visit a munitions factory. Pic: Reuters

The teenage daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un could be considered his successor, Seoul’s spy agency has been reported as saying.

The child, believed to be named Kim Ju Ae and aged around 13, has accompanied her father to several high-profile events since late 2022.

And the pair rode in a tank together last month, sparking further speculation she is being positioned as the secretive country’s future leader.


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North Korean leader and daughter try out new tank

On Monday, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) director Lee Jong-seok said in a closed-door briefing at the National Assembly the girl could be considered Mr Kim‘s successor, according to Lee Seong Kweun, one of the politicians in attendance.

NIS reportedly said its assessment was based on “credible intelligence” collected by the agency.

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Asked about potential protests from Mr Kim’s sister Kim Yo Jong, who has long been viewed as North Korea‘s number two figure, the NIS director responded that she has no substantial powers, Mr Lee told a briefing.

It is the agency’s strongest assessment yet on the rising political status of the teenager who it believes could extend her family’s rule into a fourth generation.

In early 2024, the NIS described the child as Mr Kim’s likely heir, and in February this year, the agency said it believed she was close to being designated as the nation’s future leader.

Some observers disagree with the assessments, arguing North Korea’s extremely male-centred society will likely not embrace a woman leader.

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Pic: KCNA/Reuters
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Pic: KCNA/Reuters

Who is Kim Ju Ae?

Apart from her age and name, not much else is known about Kim Ju Ae, and even those details are unconfirmed.

While North Korean state media has never published her name, it does refer to her as Kim Jong Un’s “most beloved” or “respected” child.

South Korean media has previously speculated that she is the leader’s second of three children, and that the first child is a son. However, analysts have questioned the credibility of the reports.

North Korea, which is one of the world’s most secretive nations, has not confirmed whether Ju Ae has any siblings.

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The girl made her first public appearance in November 2022, when she watched a long-range missile test launch with her father.

Read more from Sky News:
Kim Ju Ae increasingly visible
Savannah Guthrie to return to Today show

They also say Mr Kim, 42, is too young to name a future leader, a development that could weaken his ruling of the country.

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In a public appearance in March, the pair fired pistols during a visit to a light munitions factory.

Kim Jong Un and his daughter are pictured on a tank at a military training base. Pic: AP
Image:
Kim Jong Un and his daughter are pictured on a tank at a military training base. Pic: AP

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Will Kim Jong Un’s daughter be his successor?

The NIS, during Monday’s briefing, said North Korean authorities appeared to have organised such events to build up her military credentials and “reduce scepticism about a woman successor”, Mr Lee said.

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The girl’s reported name is based on an account by former NBA star Dennis Rodman, who recalled holding Mr Kim’s baby daughter during a visit to Pyongyang in 2013.

Kim Jong Un and daughter Kim Ju Ae. Pic: Reuters
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Kim Jong Un and daughter Kim Ju Ae. Pic: Reuters

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Kim Jong Un unveils ‘most powerful’ missile

North Korea, established in 1948, has been successively ruled by male members of the Kim family.

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Kim Jong Un inherited power upon his father Kim Jong Il’s death in late 2011. Kim Jong Il took control after his father and state founder Kim Il Sung died in 1994.

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Artemis II poised to break Apollo 13’s distance record from Earth

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Artemis II poised to break Apollo 13's distance record from Earth

HOUSTON (AP) — With the moon looming ever larger, the Artemis II astronauts raced to set a new distance record Monday from Earth on a lunar fly-around promising magnificent views of the far side never seen before by eye.

The six-hour flyby is the highlight of NASA’s first return to the moon since the Apollo era with three Americans and one Canadian — a step toward landing boot prints near the moon’s south pole in just two years.

A prize — and bragging rights — awaits Artemis II.

Less than an hour before kicking off the fly-around and intense lunar observations, the four astronauts were set to become the most distant humans in history, surpassing the distance record of 248,655 miles (400,171 kilometers) set by Apollo 13 in April 1970.

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Mission Control expected Artemis II to surpass that record by more than 4,100 miles (6,600 kilometers).

Artemis II is using the same maneuver that Apollo 13 did after its “Houston, we’ve had a problem” oxygen tank explosion wiped out any hope of a moon landing.

Known as a free-return lunar trajectory, this no-stopping-to-land route takes advantage of Earth and the moon’s gravity, reducing the need for fuel. It’s a celestial figure-eight that will put the astronauts on course for home, once they emerge from behind the moon Monday evening.

Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Canada’s Jeremy Hansen were on track to pass as close as 4,070 miles (6,550 kilometers) to the moon, as their Orion capsule whips past it, hangs a U-turn and then heads back toward Earth. It will take them four days to get back, with a splashdown in the Pacific concluding their test flight on Friday.

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Wiseman and his crew spent years studying lunar geography to prepare for the big event, adding solar eclipses to their repertoire during the past few weeks. By launching last Wednesday, they ensured themselves of a total solar eclipse from their vantage point behind the moon, courtesy of the cosmos.

Topping their science target list: Orientale Basin, a sprawling impact basin with three concentric rings, the outermost of which stretches nearly 600 miles (950 kilometers) across.

Other sightseeing goals: the Apollo 12 and 14 landing sites from 1969 and 1971, respectively, as well as fringes of the south polar region, the preferred locale for future touchdowns. Farther afield, Mercury, Venus, Mars and Saturn — not to mention Earth — will be visible.

Their moon mentor, NASA geologist Kelsey Young, expects thousands of pictures.

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“People all over the world connect with the moon. This is something that every single person on this planet can understand and connect with,” she said on the eve of the flyby, wearing eclipse earrings.

Artemis II is NASA’s first astronaut moonshot since Apollo 17 in 1972. It sets the stage for next year’s Artemis III, which will see another Orion crew practice docking with lunar landers in orbit around Earth. The culminating moon landing by two astronauts near the moon’s south pole will follow on Artemis IV in 2028.

While Artemis II may be taking Apollo 13’s path, it’s most reminiscent of Apollo 8 and humanity’s first lunar visitors who orbited the moon on Christmas Eve 1968 and read from the Book of Genesis.

Glover said flying to the moon during Christianity’s Holy Week brought home for him “the beauty of creation.” Earth is an oasis amid “a whole bunch of nothing, this thing we call the universe” where humanity exists as one, he observed over the weekend.

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“This is an opportunity for us to remember where we are, who we are, and that we are the same thing and that we’ve got to get through this together,” Glover said, clasping hands with his crewmates.

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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

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Four expert-backed steps to surviving the ‘anniversary effect’

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Four expert-backed steps to surviving the ‘anniversary effect’

Every February 11, the anniversary of the untimely death of my 19-year-old best friend hits me and I feel a heaviness that doesn’t lift until the day’s end.

The day when you lost a loved one, had an accident, or experienced another traumatic event can trigger grief, anger, sadness and anxiety – and also cause physical symptoms, like sickness and insomnia. In more severe cases, people suffering from PTSD may relive experiences in vivid flashbacks or dreams.

Experts call this “anniversary syndrome” or the “anniversary effect,” and every person’s experience is unique. Some 70 percent of U.S. adults say they’ve experienced at least one traumatic event, according to the National Council for Behavioral Health.

“During these times, these feelings and reactions can be strong and often ‘take you back,’” the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. The symptoms might begin in the weeks before and intensify as the date nears, the CDC adds. Some may continue for weeks after the anniversary.

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But these symptoms don’t last forever and experts have identified several steps people can take to feel relief, both mentally and physically.

Traumatic anniversaries can bring up feelings of grief, anxiety and sadness. Experts say there are steps to help counter these effects
Traumatic anniversaries can bring up feelings of grief, anxiety and sadness. Experts say there are steps to help counter these effects (AFP via Getty Images)

The rhythms of health

Getting the federallyrecommended seven hours of sleep a night is important but so is sticking to a schedule. If you don’t keep a sleep routine, it can throw off your circadian rhythm – the body’s way of regulating hormones, digestion and temperature, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Disrupting that internal clock can worsen the anniversary effect and also increase the likelihood of developing anxiety and depression.

So stick to a sleep schedule. That means going to bed and waking up at the same time, including on weekends, the Mayo Clinic instructs.

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Going for a walk in sunlight, within the hour you wake up, helps signal to your brain and body that it’s daytime, says Banner Health nurse practitioner Alexandra Lessem, “setting the circadian clock.”

If you can’t be outside, sitting by an open window with direct sunlight has a similar effect.

A balanced diet packed with fruit and vegetables is crucial for a good night’s sleep. Several foods naturally contain melatonin, such as cherries, pistachios, almonds, eggs and fish, the National Institutes of Health says, and can help make you sleepy.

It’s important to drink plenty of water and move your body every day. As little as 10 minutes of moderate or vigorous activity, such as walking briskly or running, is enough to get more restorative sleep, Benjamin Baird, research assistant professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, said.

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Mindful medicine

A few minutes of meditation a day helps with symptoms of anxiety, depression and trauma, and lets people connect with their inner self.

The ancient mind-body practice regulates the sympathetic nervous system, lowers the heart rate and levels of the stress hormone cortisol, the Cleveland Clinic says.

If you are new to meditation, begin with just a minute and build from there. There are a number of styles but some easy places to start include mindfulness meditation, which focuses on the breath, a certain image or feeling, or mantra meditation which has users repeat a certain word or phrase.

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Guided meditation – following an expert in person or in one of many online apps – can help beginners tap into the process.

Journaling is a valuable practice for coping with the “anniversary effect.” It is widely used in therapy to help patients process painful feelings – and focus their minds on what they are grateful for or positive experiences.

“It may feel safest to bury painful feelings and avoid confronting them, but acknowledging what happened and how it has impacted you is an important part of healing,” the non-profit Mental Health America says.

Meditation can help to lower heart rate and levels of the stress hormone cortisol. The practice is thousands of years old
Meditation can help to lower heart rate and levels of the stress hormone cortisol. The practice is thousands of years old (AFP via Getty Images)

Social service

As a difficult date on the calendar approaches, reach out to family and friends.

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“There are some folks that, even months before, are nervous about the anniversary,” Laura Murray, a senior scientist in mental health and a clinical psychologist at Johns Hopkins Medicine, said in a statement. “They’re thinking about it, trying to figure out how to manage it – we sometimes describe this as spinning.”

Telling others not to bring up a death or traumatic event in the days before an anniversary can help friends or family struggling with trauma to avoid undue stress.

Make plans – even if it’s something small like going to a movie with a loved one or a board game night with friends. “It is important not to isolate yourself. Instead make efforts to be with others,” the National Center for PTSD says.

If you don’t want to confide in friends and family, talk to a trauma therapist. These experts are specifically trained in techniques such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy. The therapy, first tested in 1989, involves moving your eyes a specific way while you process traumatic memories. It can improve mood without having to talk about negative events, the Cleveland Clinic says.

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All in the technique

Mental health experts recommend some tools that can alleviate the anniversary effect.

If you are feeling stressed or stuck thinking about the event, focus on the five senses – sight, smell, touch, sound and taste – to bring you back to the present, the National Alliance on Mental Illness says. This might start with the feel of your clothing, the sound of bird chirping nearby or the smell of food wafting from a restaurant.

“Then notice four of each, then three of each, and so on,” the alliance advises.

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Being told to stay positive may make you roll your eyes, but thinking positively can reduce stress, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Bring up some of those silly cat videos on your phone – the simple acts of smiling and laughing fight stress by lowering heart rate and blood pressure.

Or pay it forward: send someone a thoughtful card or buy a coffee for a stranger. Making others feel good can make you feel good about yourself.

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Man City now know exactly how to beat Arsenal as Pep Guardiola shown blueprint

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Manchester Evening News

Manchester City sit nine points off Premier League leaders Arsenal

Alan Shearer has outlined the blueprint for Manchester City to beat Arsenal and win the Premier League.

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The former Newcastle United striker highlighted the bravery and belief from Southampton during their FA Cup quarter-final, as the Saints knocked Mikel Arteta’s side out of the competition.

Within two matches, the Gunners have gone from quadruple chasers to the top-flight title race and Champions League their only remaining options for silverware.

City bossed Arsenal at Wembley on the eve of the international break to win the first piece of silverware available, after Nico O’Reilly’s double was enough to win the Carabao Cup final 2-0.

READ MORE: Rayan Cherki told ‘the only thing’ he needs to change by Man City assistant Pep Lijnders

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They followed up their cup win with an emphatic win over Liverpool to book their place in the FA Cup semi-final.

The Gunners return to action on the back of their 2-1 defeat at the Championship opposition in midweek when they travel to Sporting CP in the Champions League. They return to top-flight action when Bournemouth visit on April 11.

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Shearer hailed Southampton’s approach, he said: “They were brave, they were definitely brave, definitely had belief. They fed off the crowd, had a great energy.

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“I was really impressed with how they approached it, the manager came out and said, ‘we’re going to have a gameplan, we think we can get at them and there may be one or two weaknesses’ which was brave to think it, let alone, say it.

“He did, I thought they were absolutely outstanding, a great watch and brilliant to witness.”

City face a nine-point deficit to restore their place at the summit of English football. That could be reduced to six points if they win their game in hand and if they beat Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, it could be three going into the final five matches of the season.

Micah Richards said: “I don’t think teams in the Premier League play like that. Arsenal wouldn’t be that high, it’s almost like they went into the game thinking they can turn up.

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“They have loads of ball players, we have to give a shoutout to Dowman, on another day he scores a couple of goals but couldn’t get his touch right in the last bit of it but when you look at Arsenal and think Dowman is the best player, the senior players need to step up now.”

Lineker added: “The next two games are massive, they need to steady the ship. They have a huge lead in the Premier League, nine points, City have a game [in hand] and play Arsenal at the Etihad, so it could go down to three but it has to. It’s squeaky bum time.”

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Police launch murder probe after ‘much loved’ man found dead in Glasgow home

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Daily Record

A murder probe is underway following the death of a man in Glasgow on Thursday.

Police have launched a murder probe following the death of a man in Glasgow.

Officers from Police Scotland received a report of concern for a man at a property on Drakemire Avenue in the Castlemilk area of the city shortly after 8pm on Thursday, April 2.

Emergency services attended, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene. He has been named by cops as Craig Hamilton. Following a post-mortem examination, Craig’s death is being treated as a murder.

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His family has released a statement through Police Scotland.

It reads: “Craig was much loved by his family and friends and he will be missed. We’d ask that our privacy is respected at this time.”

Detective Chief Inspector Jennifer McCulloch said: “Our thoughts remain with Craig’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time, and we are continuing to support them as the investigation progresses.

“Extensive enquiries are ongoing and we have a dedicated team of specialist officers working through all lines of enquiry to establish the full circumstances. This includes officers going door to door in the local area, as well as thorough analysis of the available CCTV footage from the area.

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“From our enquiries so far, we have established Craig was last seen on Saturday, 28 March.

“I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the Drakemire Avenue area between Saturday, 28 March and Thursday, 2 April and saw anything suspicious to please come forward.

“Your information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, may be important so please contact us as soon as possible.

Chief Inspector Allistair Macdonald said: “We understand that this will be concerning for the local community but would like to reassure the public that extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.

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“An increased police presence will remain in the area over the coming days. Anyone with concerns, or information, can approach these officers.”

An online portal has been set up for the public to submit information directly to officers. Alternatively, contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident 3347 of 2 April, 2026. Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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Inside I’m A Celebrity South Africa 2026 start time and full line-up

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Belfast Live

I’m A Celebrity South Africa is back for its second season with an array of stars returning to the iconic ITV show.

I’m A Celebrity’s Tom Read Wilson’s audition for The Voice uncovered

I’m A Celebrity South Africa is making its comeback for a second series this evening, with the All Stars edition bringing together some of the show’s most memorable faces.

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ITV’s beloved reality programme returns with presenting duo Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly leading the charge as this year’s 12 contestants face their most daunting trials to date.

From scaling rock faces and leaping from planes to tackling an aerial obstacle course, the famous faces will need to conquer their anxieties once again if they hope to stay in the running.

I’m A Celebrity South Africa 2026 start time

I’m A Celebrity South Africa launches its second series this evening, Monday, April 6, at 9pm on ITV and ITVX.

The 90-minute special has been billed as a “sneak peek”, with Ant and Dec offering viewers a “preview” of what lies ahead in series two.

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READ MORE: ITV This Morning hosts shocked as co-star recalls horrific accidentREAD MORE: ITV Good Morning Britain fans praise ‘refreshing’ show change as hosts return

I’m A Celebrity South Africa 2026 cast

Gemma Collins

The Only Way Is Essex star Gemma Collins famously appeared in the 2014 series of I’m A Celeb for a mere three days before her theatrical departure.

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Yet over a decade on, the larger-than-life television personality is back, with viewers keen to discover whether she’ll stick it out longer this time.

Seann Walsh

Comedian and actor Seann Walsh secured fifth place four years ago, so will he manage to climb higher in the ITV contest in 2026?

The British former professional boxer memorably stripped off for an al fresco shower during his I’m A Celebrity appearance back in 2012.

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He secured third place and now the 45 year old is back with his sights set on winning.

Scarlett Moffatt

Television star Scarlett Moffatt rose to prominence on Channel 4’s Gogglebox before claiming victory in I’m A Celebrity in 2016.

Looking ahead to the new series, the 35 year old has already revealed that this season “wasn’t as harmonious” as her first stint on the show.

Adam Thomas

The former Emmerdale actor holds the record for completing the most challenges ever, having tackled 12 Bushtucker Trials during his appearance in the 2016 series.

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Sir Mo Farah

The Olympic long-distance runner Sir Mo Farah featured on I’m A Celebrity during the coronavirus pandemic when production moved to Gwrych Castle in Wales.

He secured fifth place in series 20, but how will he fare when he experiences the ITV programme overseas for the first time?

Ashley Roberts

The Pussycat Dolls icon is well-versed in popular reality television, having previously appeared on Strictly Come Dancing and The Jump.

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She came second in 2012, narrowly missing out to EastEnders star Charlie Brooks.

Sinitta

Singer Sinitta left a lasting impression on I’m A Celeb viewers after screaming her way through every Bushtucker Trial in 2011.

Will the 62-year-old fare better on this occasion as she joins the I’m A Celeb All Stars line-up?

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Craig Charles

The Coronation Street and Red Dwarf actor Craig Charles was forced to withdraw from the 2014 series prematurely following his brother’s fatal heart attack.

He now gets his second opportunity on I’m A Celebrity, though he experienced another bereavement just days before his return as his mother-in-law died.

Harry Redknapp

Harry Redknapp quickly became a viewer favourite back in 2018, so his victory that series came as little surprise.

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The former King of the Jungle is once more bidding farewell to his cherished wife Sandra as he heads off to compete in All Stars.

Jimmy Bullard

Ex-Premier League star Jimmy Bullard became the first casualty in 2014, meaning his jungle stint was disappointingly short-lived.

He’s making a comeback for the 2026 South Africa series, determined to claim the crown this time around.

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Beverley Callard

Coronation Street icon Beverley Callard featured in the pandemic-era I’m A Celebrity when the show relocated to Wales in 2020.

Having portrayed pub landlady Liz McDonald for over 30 years, she’s well-versed in handling drama, but how will she fare tackling the Bushtucker Trials overseas for the first time?

I’m A Celebrity South Africa 2026 release schedule

I’m A Celebrity South Africa series two launches tonight, Monday, April 6, on ITV and ITVX.

Following tonight’s opener, the legendary reality series will broadcast every weeknight for three consecutive weeks in the 9pm slot.

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This schedule continues through to the grand finale, which is slated for Friday, April 24.

I’m A Celebrity South Africa kicks off on Monday, April 6, at 9pm on ITV.

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Full list of 76 countries on UK Foreign Office no travel list

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Daily Mirror

Travelling to these countries could put your safety at risk

Brits are reminded to check important information before jetting off on holiday, as the Foreign Office currently has travel warnings in place for 52 countries. The Government body advises people not to venture to these locations amid safety and security concerns.

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And a further 24 countries have “all but essential travel” guidelines set by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Failing to adhere to these warnings can not only put your safety at risk but invalidate any travel insurance you have.

As reported by The Independent, political conflicts, natural disasters and safety concerns are some of the reasons the UK Foreign Office will advise people to avoid certain destinations.

Among these current restrictions are advice against “all travel” and “all but essential travel” to entire countries or parts of countries in Europe, Africa, Asia and South America.

Of a total of 226 countries or territories with foreign travel advice pages, 76 are currently flagged as having no-go zones due to security issues, health risks and legal differences with the UK.

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Below is the full list of countries on the FCDO “do not travel” list.

FCDO advises against all travel

  • Afghanistan
  • Belarus
  • Burkina Faso
  • Haiti
  • Iran
  • Iraq
  • Israel
  • Mali
  • Niger
  • Palestine
  • Russia
  • South Sudan
  • Syria
  • Yemen

FCDO advises against all travel to parts

  • Algeria – all travel to within 30km of Algeria’s borders with Libya, Mauritania, Mali, Niger, Tunisia
  • Armenia – within 5km of the full eastern border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the M16/H26 road between the towns of Ijevan and Noyemberyan
  • Azerbaijan – within 5km of the Azerbaijan-Armenia border
  • Benin – northern border regions
  • Burundi – FCDO advises against all travel to Mugina, Cibitoke, Bukinyayana, Bubanza and Mpanda communes, and parts of Ntahangwa commune, specifically the RN5 road north of Melchior Ndadaye International Airport
  • Cameroon – Bakassi Peninsula, parts of the Far-North Region, North-West Region and South-West Region and within 40km of the Central African Republic, Chad and Nigeria borders
  • Central African Republic – against all travel except to the capital, Bangui
  • Chad – Borkou, Ennedi Ouest, Ennedi Est and Tibesti provinces, Kanem Province, including Nokou, Lake Chad region and within 30km of all Chad’s other borders
  • Congo – within 50km of the Republic of Congo-Central African Republic border in Likouala Region
  • Côte d’Ivoire – FCDO advises against all travel within 40km of the borders with Burkina Faso and Mali, to the Northern Zanzan and Savanes provinces and to Comoé National Park
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo – within 50km of the border with the Central African Republic, the province of Kasaï Oriental, the Kwamouth territory of Mai-Ndombe Province and provinces in Eastern DRC
  • Djibouti – Djibouti-Eritrea border
  • Egypt – within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border and the North Sinai Governorate
  • Eritrea – within 25km of Eritrea’s land borders
  • Ethiopia – international border areas, the Tigray region, Amhara region, Afar region, Gambela region, Oromia region, Somali region, Central, Southern, Sidama and South West regions and Benishangul-Gumuz region
  • Georgia – South Ossetia and Abkhazia
  • India – within 10km of the India-Pakistan border and Jammu and Kashmir
  • Indonesia – Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, Mount Sinabung, Mount Marapi, Mount Semeru, Mount Ruang, Mount Ibu
  • Jordan – within 3km of the border with Syria and all but essential travel to all other areas
  • Kenya – Kenya-Somalia border and northern parts of the east coast
  • Lebanon – areas in Beirut and Mount Lebanon Governorate, the South and Nabatiyeh Governorates, the Beqaa Governorate, the Baalbek-Hermel Governorate, the Akkar Governorate, the city of Tripoli and Palestinian refugee camps
  • Libya – advises against all travel to Libya except for the cities of Benghazi and Misrata
  • Mauritania – Eastern Mauritania and within 25km of the Malian border
  • Moldova –Transnistria
  • Mozambique – Cabo Delgado province, parts of Nampula province and Niassa province
  • Myanmar (Burma) – Chin State, Kachin State, Kayah State, Kayin State, Mon State, Rakhine State, Sagaing and Magway regions, Tanintharyi Region, Shan State North, North Mandalay Region, and East of the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway in Bago region
  • Nigeria – Borno State, Yobe State, Adamawa State, Gombe State, Katsina State, Zamfara State and the riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states
  • Pakistan – within 10 miles of the border with Afghanistan, areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province and the Balochistan Province
  • Philippines – western and central Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago
  • Saudi Arabia – within 10km of the border with Yemen
  • Somalia – advises against all travel except the western regions Awdal, Maroodijeh and Sahil, for which it advises against all but essential travel
  • Sudan – against all travel except to the Hala’ib Triangle and the Bir Tawil Trapezoid, for which it advises against all but essential travel
  • Togo – within 30km of the border with Burkina Faso except for the city of Dapaong and the N1 highway leading to it from the south
  • Tunisia – parts of Western Tunisia, including the Tunisia-Algeria border and Southern Tunisia, including the Tunisia-Libya border
  • Turkey – within 10km of the Turkey-Syria border
  • Ukraine – all regions of Ukraine with the exception of some western areas, for which it advises against all but essential travel
  • Venezuela – border areas, the Orinoco Mining Arc, south of the Orinoco river and the Zulia state. All but essential travel to all remaining areas of Venezuela
  • Western Sahara – within 30km of ‘the Berm’ boundary line and areas south and east of the Berm boundary line

FCDO advises against all but essential travel

The FCDO clarifies: “Whether travel is essential or not is your own decision. You may have urgent family or business commitments which you need to attend to. Only you can make an informed decision based on your own individual circumstances and the risks.”

  • Bahrain
  • Cuba
  • Qatar
  • Kuwait
  • North Korea
  • United Arab Emirates

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FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts

  • Angola – Cabinda Province, except Cabinda city and border areas in Lunda Norte Province
  • Bangladesh
  • Bolivia – Chapare region
  • Brazil – four river areas towards the west of Amazonas State – along the Amazon River and its tributaries west of the town of Codajás and east of the town of Belém do Solimões, the Itaquaí River, the Japurá River and along the Rio Negro and its tributaries north or west of the town of Barcelos
  • Cambodia – within 20km from the land border with Thailand
  • Colombia – within 5km of borders and parts of northern, central and southern Colombia and the Pacific Coast
  • Ecuador – seven coastal region provinces and within 20km of the Ecuador-Colombia border
  • Ghana – Bawku Municipality
  • Guatemala – within 5km of the Mexican border and the towns of Santa Ana Huista, San Antonio Huista and La Democracia
  • Kosovo – the municipalities of Zvečan, Zubin Potok and Leposavic, and areas of Mitrovica north of the river Ibar
  • Laos – Xaisomboun Province
  • Malaysia – Eastern Sabah coastal islands
  • Mexico – parts of Baja California, Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Guanajuato, Michoacán, Jalisco, Colima, Guerrero and Chiapas
  • Papua New Guinea – Hela and Southern Highlands provinces, Enga Province in the Highlands, except Wabag District
  • Peru – within 20km south of the Peru-Colombia border and the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro River
  • Rwanda – Rusizi district
  • Tanzania – within 20km of the Tanzanian border with Cabo Delgado Province in Mozambique
  • Thailand – parts of the south, near the Thailand-Malaysia border and within 20km of the land border with Cambodia

To check the travel advice for a country before you visit, see the Foreign Office’s complete guide here.

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